I always told my friends never trust what the stealerships say, it's always about the service advisor recommending stuff that are not needed but to just rack up commissions.. That's why when you have an aging vehicle stay away from stealerships.. they are basically parts changer with no diagnostic skills. a small crack on the bushing! dangerous replace it! misfiring! need a new engine rough idle.. let change all the fluids, maf sensor, throttle body and what else...
when you replace the knuckle the bearings are already included and the ABS sensor needs to be swapped (not replaced if there are no codes for it) typically the labor is considered is itemized as 1 unit not individually for the parts.. normally there's no need to replace the knuckle but it's always easier (labor-wise) to replace the whole thing to avoid pressing the wheel bearing in and out. That's why shop do it the fastest way (charge standard book time) rather than the economical way. Newer cars right now are no DIY-friendly because of the recalibration needed from the dealership (dealer only scan tool) and you are on their mercy.. I prefer to DIY older cars..
